by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 13, 2025 | Ghana, Other Sports
The 28th edition of the Ghana University Sports Association (GUSA) Games commenced at the University of Cape Coast (UCC) on Monday, emphasizing the need for increased investment in university sports infrastructure.
Key Highlights:
Opening Ceremony: The Vice-Chancellor of UCC, Professor Johnson Nyarko Boampong, inaugurated the event, urging stakeholders and the government to prioritize university sports infrastructure for national development.
Theme: “Repositioning University Sports for National Development.”
Participants: Athletes from 16 universities, including UCC, KNUST, UG, UPSA, UEW, UMaT, and others, are competing in the 15-day sports festival.
Events: The games feature athletics, beach volleyball, handball, hockey, football, basketball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, goalball, and netball.
Significance: Organizers and stakeholders highlighted the role of university sports in fostering unity, developing talent, and driving socio-economic growth.
Torch Lighting: Professor Boampong lit the ceremonial torch, symbolizing the official opening of the games.
The President of GUSA, Shaibu Ibrahim Tanko, stressed that university sports extend beyond competition, contributing to character building, teamwork, and socio-economic development. He celebrated past successes, such as a UCC student’s historic gold medal in high jump at the World University Games, as evidence of the global potential of Ghanaian athletes.
The Local Organizing Committee Chairperson, Professor Rosemond Boohene, encouraged athletes to compete fairly while upholding sportsmanship and building relationships during the games.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 13, 2025 | Boxing, Ghana
National Welterweight Champion Sampson Segbedzi has sent a bold message to all contenders in Ghana and Africa, expressing his readiness to defend his titles against anyone who brings competitive and lucrative offers.
In an exclusive interview with Sammy Heywood Okine at The Gym in Accra, the rising star from Ashaiman emphasized the dangers of boxing and the need for athletes to be adequately compensated for their skill, effort, and talent.
“I am very expensive, and these titles were earned with significant investment. Boxing is big business for me, and I’m open to any promoter who values quality and wants to stage a great show,” Segbedzi stated.
The undefeated champion (9-0-0) currently holds the National Welterweight title, the UBO Africa Welterweight belt, and the PST Tanzania title. A proud native of Kpa Kpa in Adidome, Volta Region, Segbedzi aspires to become an African and World Champion, drawing inspiration from his idol Floyd Mayweather.
Beyond boxing, Segbedzi enjoys football, with Christian Ronaldo as his favorite player, and he spends his free time playing pool football and listening to music by Stonebwoy, a fellow Ashaiman native.
Known as “Mama’s Boy,” he takes pride in his resilience and determination, crediting his coaches, Nii Gonti Adjor 1 (Nii Adama Addy) and Laryea (Lion), as well as his manager, Mr. Albert Ayeebo of Wintuma Enterprise, for their exceptional guidance and support.
Segbedzi expressed gratitude to the chiefs, elders, and people of Adidome for their unwavering support, as well as his hometown Ashaiman for embracing him as their champion.
He also called for reforms in Ghana boxing, advocating for transparency, credible rankings, and improved remuneration for boxers, trainers, and officials.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 13, 2025 | Boxing, Ghana
Mohammed Agyeman Jr., the 2024 winner of the Boxing Ghana Media Personality and Photographer of the Year awards, shared his vision for the future of boxing media in Ghana during an appearance on The Big Fight Night on Omashi TV. Initially a trainee coach with Bronx Boxing Club, Agyeman Jr. transitioned to media production, creating compelling content entirely with his phone to promote and support Ghana’s boxing scene.
“I truly enjoy what I’m doing, and I see it as a contribution to the growth of Ghana boxing. Promoters, managers, and boxers need better visibility, and I’m proud to play my part. I’ve been inspired by figures like General One of Friends of Boxing, Clyde Tetteh Narh, Mubarak Nanor (aka America), and Dornu’s Corner,” he said.
He extended an apology to Coach Carl Lokko for leaving his coaching role to pursue boxing media and expressed gratitude to promoters and managers such as Osibor, Currency, SP, and Bronx Promotions for their encouragement and support.
As an Ashanti and Muslim born in Accra, Agyeman Jr. has embraced the Ga culture and considers himself a proud Jamestown citizen. Through his platform, IboxTV360, he aims to drive creativity and innovation in boxing media while exploring opportunities for growth.
“I dedicate my two Boxing Ghana Awards to all my friends and supporters. The recognition has boosted my popularity and motivated me to work harder. It’s proof that people appreciate our efforts,” he remarked, thanking Omashi TV for the platform and all who voted for him.
Agyeman Jr. believes the boxing industry needs significant financial support to provide equipment and promote local talent. He urged Ghanaian media to prioritize boxing coverage, emphasizing its excitement and potential.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 13, 2025 | Boxing, Ghana
After dedicating 47 years of his life as Ghana’s most reliable boxing timekeeper, Edward Addo, a retired employee of the Ministry of Defence, is calling for recognition and honor from the boxing and sports community.
Speaking on The Big Fight Night show on Omashi TV, Addo expressed his gratitude for being invited to a television studio for the first time. “I’ve been called on air for scores before, but this is my first live TV appearance, and I’m very grateful,” he said.
Edward Addo’s journey in boxing began as a referee before he transitioned to timekeeping, stepping in for Brisco Addo, who previously handled the role. Since then, timekeeping has become an essential part of his life, with his presence at every boxing event being a constant.
“I have to stay focused throughout the bouts, watching my time, the referee, and the ring to ensure accuracy. The role isn’t financially rewarding, but we sacrifice for the growth and promotion of Ghana boxing,” he shared.
Addo, who serves both professional and amateur boxing matches, acknowledged the risks associated with his job and the minimal allowances he receives. However, he remains grateful to God for protection and strength. He credited Mr. Teddy Lamptey, formerly of the Ghana Amateur Boxing Association, for introducing him to the sport, which has now become his passion.
The veteran official dismissed claims that Ghana boxing is declining, stating instead that the sport is growing in popularity. He emphasized the need for improved security and a better understanding of the business of boxing to elevate the sport further. Addo also urged Ghana’s political leadership to invest in sports, particularly boxing, which has brought the country international medals at events like the Olympics and Commonwealth Games.
A proud family man, Edward Addo is married with five children. He enjoys Ga Kenkey and fried fish and considers boxing his favorite hobby. His all-time favorite boxer is Ike “Bazooka” Quartey, and his favorite trainer is Vincent Akai Nettey of the Attoh Quarshie Boxing Club.
by Kelly Eric Ehor | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Athletics, International
The Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) has officially announced Senegal as the host nation for the 2025 CAA Zone II U-18 and U-20 Athletics Championships, scheduled to take place in March.
Tonobok Okowa, the president of CAA Zone II and the Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN), revealed that Senegal was chosen over Nigeria, Guinea, and Burkina Faso to ensure broader regional inclusivity. He emphasized the importance of uniting West African countries through athletics and creating equal opportunities for all member nations.
“We’ve previously hosted CAA Zone II competitions in countries like Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana, located on the western side of the sub-region. It is now time to give the eastern side an opportunity to make history and contribute to the growth of athletics,” Okowa stated.
He highlighted Senegal’s excellent sporting infrastructure and rich heritage in athletics as key factors in the decision. “Senegal offers a vibrant sporting environment with resourceful and hospitable people who value diversity and hospitality. Their commitment to creating a memorable experience for athletes and officials is commendable,” he added.
Okowa assured that measures would be in place to address potential concerns, including ensuring adequate security, seamless logistics, and crowd management. Over 500 athletes and officials from 16 countries are expected to participate in the championships.
The event aligns with Okowa’s vision of harnessing youth potential through sports, using athletics as a platform to engage and create opportunities for young talents across the region
